Eagles – The Last Resort

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Eagles – The Last Resort
“The Last Resort” is a song by the Eagles, written by Don Henley and Glenn Frey. It was originally released on their album *Hotel California* on December 8, 1976, and later as the B-side of the “Life in the Fast Lane” single on May 3, 1977.
The song’s lyrics discuss how industry and commerce inevitably destroy beautiful places. In a 1978 interview with Rolling Stone, Henley expressed his strong feelings about environmental issues, saying: “‘The Last Resort’, on *Hotel California*, is still one of my favorite songs… The gist of the song was that when we find something good, we destroy it by our presence — by the very fact that man is the only animal on earth that is capable of destroying his environment. The environment is the reason I got into politics: to try to do something about what I saw as the complete destruction of most of the resources that we have left. We have mortgaged our future for gain and greed.”
On an episode of *In the Studio with Redbeard*, which focused on the making of *Hotel California*, Frey praised Henley’s work on the song, stating: “I have to give all the credit for ‘The Last Resort’ to (Don) Henley. It was the first time that Don, on his own, took it upon himself to write an epic story… It seemed the perfect way to wrap up all of the different topics we had explored on the *Hotel California* album. Don found himself as a lyricist with that song, kind of outdid himself… We’re constantly screwing up paradise and that was the point of the song and that at some point there is going to be no more new frontiers.”
Henley added that he had been reading about the exploitation of the West by mining, timber, oil, and cattle interests while writing the song. He aimed to broaden its scope and “tried to go ‘Michener’ with it,” though he was never fully satisfied with the final result. Frey referred to the song as “Henley’s opus.”

In the realm of classic rock music, few bands stand as tall and iconic as the Eagles. With their soaring harmonies, masterful songwriting, and timeless melodies, they have etched their names into the annals of music history. Among their extensive discography, one song stands out as a beacon of resilience and hope amidst life’s trials: “The Last Resort”.

Released in 1976 as the title track of their sixth studio album, “The Last Resort” encapsulates the essence of the Eagles‘ sound, blending elements of country, rock, and Americana. The song’s opening notes, a gentle cascade of acoustic guitar, immediately transport the listener to a place of tranquility, setting the stage for a journey of self-reflection and emotional depth.

Glenn Frey, the song’s primary lyricist, paints a vivid picture of a protagonist facing life’s uncertainties and seeking solace in the familiar embrace of home. The lyrics, infused with a sense of longing and nostalgia, speak to the universal human experience of seeking refuge amidst the storms of life.

Frey’s evocative storytelling is complemented by the Eagles’ signature harmonies, which soar effortlessly above the instrumental backdrop. Don Henley, Bernie Leadon, and Randy Meisner weave their voices together in a tapestry of vocal perfection, creating an emotional resonance that is both poignant and uplifting.

As the song progresses, the protagonist’s journey takes a turn towards self-reliance and determination. The lyrics, now imbued with a newfound strength, declare: “I’ll be flying away, on my own wings again.” This declaration of independence serves as a beacon of hope, reminding listeners that even in the darkest of times, the power of resilience lies within.

“The Last Resort” culminates in a rousing crescendo, the Eagles’ voices harmonizing in a chorus of defiance and hope. The final notes linger in the air, leaving the listener with a sense of empowerment and the belief that, indeed, they too can find solace and strength within themselves.

More than just a song, “The Last Resort” is an anthem for the human spirit. It is a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries, speak to the soul, and offer solace in times of need. With its timeless message of resilience and hope, “The Last Resort” remains an enduring classic, continuing to inspire and uplift generations of listeners.

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